The Pallavas, Chalukyas, Cholas and Vijayanagara are the names of the eminent dynasties and rulers who ruled over vast areas of South India. Historians and laymen are well acquainted with the achievements and stories of these great kings. However, there also existed lesser-known dynasties in the Southern part of India whose contributions to the political, economic, social, cultural and religious history of this region cannot be ignored. One among these is the family of the Vishnukundi kings, who reined major areas of the ancient Andhra region. The height of their power dated between the last quarters of the 4th century A.D. up to the first quarter of the 7th century A.D.
The Vishnukundis were politically connected with other great ruling dynasties of the time like the Vakatakas, Chalukyas and the Pallavas. Their inscriptions have served as the main source of information about their linage. Some of these inscriptions are carved in chaste Sanskrit, revealing the importance and high standard which this ancient language had achieved in this period. Some of these kings were great scholars and it is known that Govinda Varman was conversant with many treatises and encouraged scholars. Vikramendra Varman was a poet who held the title mahakavi (great poet) and Prithiviyuvaraja participated in the intellectual discussions of scholars. The scholars of their kingdom, who received land and other gifts from them, were well-versed in many of the ancient scriptures in addition to being well-known teachers drawing students from far and near. Among the other well-known Vishnukundi kings are Govinda Varman, Madhava Varman and Indrabhattaraka Varman.
The magnitude of these rulers is indicated by the title 'Maharaja' which some of these kings bore as well as the fact that they performed the Ashwamedha or horse-sacrifice which was meant to demonstrate the might of kings in ancient India. Interestingly, Madhava Varman, one of the greatest of the Vishnukundi rulers, performed eleven Ashwamedhas according to his epigraphs.
The Vishnukundi kings were very righteous in dispensing justice and also in other aspects of administration and abided by the codes given in the Dharma Sastrns or ancient law books. One of these kings is fondly referred to by the adjective 'Paramadharmika' (highly righteous).
(Last Updated on : 06-12-2016)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recently Updated Articles in States of India
|
|
|
• | History of Chhattisgarh History of Chhattisgarh dates back to the era of epics and traces through the reign of powerful dynasties in India like Marathas. The area developed a rich cultural heritage during British era.
| | • | Arvalem Caves Arvalem Caves are among one of the ancient monuments of Goa and a place of tourist interest. These ancient caves are believed to have been built sometime in the 6th-7th century.
| | • | Elk Waterfalls Elk Waterfalls is one of the unique spots of Tamil Nadu. Known for scenic beauty, the waterfall is frequented by a number of tourists.
| | • | Killiyur Waterfalls Killiyur Waterfalls is one of the most attractive waterfalls in Tamil Nadu. The waterfall collects the surplus water of the lake and remains most attractive during and after the monsoon.
| | • | History of Dadra and Nagar Haveli History of Dadra and Nagar Haveli states the political scenario of this Union Territory of India, which is based between Maharashtra and Gujarat, ever since it witnessed the reign of the Marathas till it was declared a part of India on 2nd August, 1954.
| | |
|
|
|
|